Conveniently located to serve Arlington, Alexandria, and Washington DC
Family Dentistry
Family dentists are general dentists who open their practice to all age groups and welcome children. While many dentists focus on certain age groups, whether that’s complex restorations for adults or specialty dental care for pediatric patients, family dentists provide general maintenance of oral hygiene for the entire family – from children, to adults and seniors.
The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends that you visit your dentist for a checkup a minimum of two times each year.
Family dentists provide services that include:
- Comprehensive exams & cleanings
- Oral health problem detection and prevention
- Fillings and sealants
- Gum disease treatment
- Simple tooth extractions
- Dental crowns
Other important functions include:
Education – Family dentists educate the child using models, computer technology, and child-friendly terminology, thus emphasizing the importance of keeping teeth strong and healthy. In addition, they advise parents on disease prevention, trauma prevention, good eating habits, and other aspects of the home hygiene routine.
Monitoring growth – By continuously tracking growth and development, Family dentists are able to anticipate dental issues and quickly intervene before they worsen. Also, working towards earlier corrective treatment preserves the child’s self-esteem and fosters a more positive self-image.
Prevention – Helping parents and children establish sound eating and oral care habits reduces the chances of later tooth decay. In addition to providing check ups and dental cleanings, Family dentists are also able to apply dental sealants and topical fluoride to young teeth, advise parents on thumb- sucking/pacifier/smoking cessation, and provide good demonstrations of brushing and flossing.
Intervention – In some cases, Family dentists may discuss the possibility of early oral treatments with parents. In the case of oral injury, malocclusion (bad bite), or bruxism (grinding), space maintainers may be fitted, a nighttime mouth guard may be recommended, or reconstructive surgery may be scheduled.
Contact Our Arlington Family Dentist at SKS Dental
If you have questions or concerns about Family dentistry, please contact Dr. Smita Sabharwal at SKS Dental.
Dr. Sabharwal is a wonderful dentist! I would highly recommend her and have done so to all my friends. Her new office is bright and welcoming. Her staff are friendly and helpful. She is very patient with me – I’m nervous about going to the dentist- and I appreciate how she explains the procedures when I ask for more information. She also sees my kids- ages 4,9 and 77- and they enjoy going to visit her. She has a great manner with children and adults. We are so happy to have found such a great dentist!